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Mechanical Engineering Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Engineering - AI Training Specialist About the Role What if your engineering knowledge ... research labs - to train and improve advanced AI models. Your deep expertise in fluid dynamics ...

Mechanical Engineering AI Trainer About the Role We're looking for mechanical engineers to help train and evaluate cutting-edge AI models being developed by the world's leading AI research labs. Your ...

Mechanical Engineering - AI Data Trainer About the Role We partner with the world's leading AI research teams and labs to build and train cutting-edge AI models. Now we're looking for mechanical ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$111.80K - $147.70K/yr

Practical experience in mechanical engineering * Research and Development of new tools and methodologies to understand and reverse engineer processes and support systems at remote WMD-related ...

Mechanical Engineering - AI Trainer About the Role We're looking for mechanical engineers to help ... Work on genuinely cutting-edge AI projects in collaboration with world-leading research labs

Mechanical Engineering AI Trainer We're partnering with the world's leading AI research labs to build smarter, more technically rigorous AI systems -- and we need mechanical engineers to make it ...

Mechanical Engineering Manager

Hercules, CA · On-site

$114.80K - $158.40K/yr

We need a mechanical engineering leader who gets excited about pushing the boundaries of medical ... This work will span from the research stage through product launch. At our Hercules headquarters ...

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Showing results 1-20

Mechanical Engineering Research information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do mechanical engineering research jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering research in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Mechanical Engineering Research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Mechanical Engineering Research, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, advanced mathematics, and often a graduate degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, and experience with laboratory equipment are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear technical communication set outstanding researchers apart. These skills ensure rigorous, innovative research and effective collaboration, which are vital for advancing technology and solving complex engineering challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in mechanical engineering research roles?

Mechanical engineering research professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing theoretical analysis with experimental validation, managing tight project timelines, and staying current with rapidly evolving technologies. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is frequent, so strong communication skills are crucial for integrating input from different fields. Additionally, securing funding for research and publishing results in reputable journals can be competitive, requiring persistence and adaptability.

What is mechanical engineering research?

Mechanical engineering research involves the systematic investigation and development of new technologies, materials, processes, or methods within the field of mechanical engineering. Researchers in this area work to solve complex engineering problems, improve existing mechanical systems, and innovate in areas like robotics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science. The goal is to advance knowledge and contribute to technological progress in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Research vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering ResearchMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; focus on design skills
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic or corporate R&D centersDesign studios, manufacturing plants, engineering firms
Primary FocusDeveloping new theories, materials, or technologiesCreating and testing mechanical components and systems
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, R&D departmentsProduct development, manufacturing, engineering consulting

Mechanical Engineering Research involves exploring new concepts and technologies in labs, often within academic or corporate R&D settings. In contrast, Mechanical Design Engineers focus on designing, prototyping, and refining mechanical systems for practical application. Both roles require a strong foundation in mechanical engineering but differ in their primary objectives and work environments.

More about Mechanical Engineering Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Research jobs? Cities with the most Mechanical Engineering Research job openings:
What states have the most Mechanical Engineering Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Mechanical Engineering Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Research job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

$85.10K - $117.40K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Interested in helping us transform thermal and electric energy?

Become a part of the leading Generation-IV nuclear plant development team.


Come join us at Terrestrial Energy, a US developer of advanced, Generation IV nuclear reactors. We are growing our workforce to develop and deploy our Integral Molten Salt Reactor (IMSR) small modular nuclear plant to provide cost-competitive, clean firm heat and power to industry.

The Company has recently completed a merger creating a publicly listed operating company (NASDAQ "IMSR"), to secure the capital resources for our next growth phase. With the current alignment of US Federal and State government, as well as industry interest in Small Modular Reactor (SMR) and advanced reactor technologies such as Terrestrial Energy's IMSR, there is today a unique and compelling opportunity to participate in the execution of the company's growth business plan.

The Company is building a team of high-performing business professionals and leaders in engineering, R&D, product management and business development areas at our Charlotte, North Carolina headquarters and future project sites. We are looking for talented individuals who can help build the organization, processes, and goal-orientated corporate culture to lead the company in our expansion. We are seeking people who:

  • Have US market experience and perspectives bringing good judgement and innovative approaches to problem solving and business plan execution.
  • Have demonstrated exceptional performance in past engineering projects.
  • Offer exceptional leadership and team building capabilities.
  • Have a deep understanding of the requirements for advanced reactor development.
  • Can assist in the creation of the discipline and organized company structure, and contributed to a culture of excellence, necessary for the development and deployment of the Company's IMSR plant.
  • Can thrive in a fast growing and opportunity business environment, and are capable of flexibility and adaptability at a time of organizational change.
  • Have the specific skillset and experience for the following role:


The experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager, reporting to the Engineering Director, will primarily be responsible for leading our mechanical engineering function within a dynamic matrix organization. This senior leadership role will provide functional management for the Mechanical Engineering, Stress Analysis, CAD Design, and Thermal Hydraulic groups, ensuring technical excellence while supporting project delivery across multiple programs. The successful candidate will be responsible for building and maintaining a world-class engineering team capable of delivering innovative solutions for the commercialization of the Integral Molten Salt Reactor.

Key Responsibilities

  • You will serve as the functional leader responsible for the supervision, professional development, and technical qualification of mechanical engineering staff across multiple disciplines.
  • You will establish and maintain engineering standards, processes, and procedures that ensure compliance with nuclear industry codes and standards including ASME, CSA, and relevant regulatory requirements.
  • Your role will involve workforce planning, recruitment, and retention strategies to build organizational capability aligned with business objectives.
  • You will provide technical oversight and guidance to ensure engineering deliverables meet quality standards and project requirements while fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
  • In the matrix organization structure, you will collaborate closely with project managers and other functional leaders to allocate resources effectively, balance workload across the Engineering Department, and resolve competing priorities.
  • You will be accountable for the performance management of your team, including conducting regular reviews, identifying skill gaps, and creating individual development plans that support both employee growth and organizational needs. The position requires establishing and maintaining technical competency frameworks for each engineering discipline under your supervision, ensuring that staff members possess the appropriate qualifications and certifications required for nuclear engineering work.
  • You will serve as a technical lead within the organization, participating in design reviews, providing input on major technical decisions, and representing the mechanical engineering function in interactions with regulators, customers, and industry partners.
  • You will champion safety culture and ensure adherence to quality assurance protocols throughout all engineering activities.


Requirements

Education

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related engineering discipline from an accredited institution
  • Professional Engineering (P.Eng.) license or equivalent professional registration

Experience:

  • Minimum 10 years of progressive engineering experience
  • Minimum 5 years in leadership or management capacity overseeing multidisciplinary technical teams
  • Substantial experience in the nuclear industry or other highly regulated sectors (pressure vessel design, power generation, or aerospace)
  • Demonstrated experience working within matrix organizational structures
  • Proven track record managing resources across multiple concurrent projects

Technical Knowledge:

  • Strong knowledge of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code
  • Familiarity with ASME B31.1 and B31.3 piping codes
  • Understanding of CSA nuclear standards and relevant regulatory requirements
  • Experience with engineering analysis tools and CAD systems
  • Working knowledge of stress analysis and thermal hydraulic principles

Leadership & Management:

  • Excellent leadership and people management skills
  • Proven ability to build high-performing teams and develop engineering talent
  • Strong technical communication skills with ability to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences
  • Experience conducting performance reviews and creating professional development plans

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively across organizational boundaries with multiple departments
  • Experience partnering with Research & Development teams to identify engineering data requirements, develop test specifications, and translate research and testing results into practical engineering applications
  • Strong collaboration skills with Safety and Licensing functions to support regulatory compliance and licensing submissions
  • Proven track record working with Quality Assurance organizations to maintain documentation and quality standards
  • Ability to interface with IT departments on engineering software implementation, data management, and digital infrastructure
  • Experience facilitating cross-functional design reviews and technical meetings with diverse stakeholders
  • Skills in managing competing priorities and resolving technical issues that span multiple departments


Assets

  • Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or related field
  • Direct experience within the nuclear power industry, particularly with advanced reactor technologies or molten salt systems
  • Strong knowledge of ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section III Division 5
  • Familiarity with United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (US NRC), United States Department of Energy (DOE), and/or Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) licensing processes and regulatory requirements
  • Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
  • Background in advanced simulation and modeling techniques
  • Previous involvement in nuclear licensing or regulatory submissions


Benefits

  • Extended Healthcare Plan (Medical, Disability, Dental & Vision), + an additional Health Spending Account
  • A vacation policy designed to support your work-life balance
  • EAP Programs available to you and your family
  • Wellness Subsidy
  • Annual Performance Review
  • Paid United Way Volunteer Days - A chance to give back!


Please submit a Resume andCover Letter.


Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the US without the need for sponsorship for employment visa status.


Terrestrial Energy requires that the successful candidate be able to access and use information subject to U.S. Export Control Laws, which mandate all citizenships (including dual citizenships) be from the U.S. Department of Energy's List of Generally Authorized Countries (10 CFR Part 810 Appendix A and can be found here:

https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-10/chapter-III/part-810/appendix-Appendix%20A%20to%20Part%20810
) unless a specific authorization from the U.S. Department of Energy is obtained or unless you are a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. permanent resident, or protected individual under the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Act (8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)). Additional information can be found here: https://www.energy.gov/nnsa/10-cfr-part-810.

Terrestrial Energy Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any legally protected status or group. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals.

If you require accommodation during the application or interview process, please advise us as soon as possible so appropriate arrangements can be made. If you require technical support in a format that is accessible to you, please contact Accessibility@terrestrialenergy.com